Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade has responded to the organization's decision to replace his statue outside Kaseya Center following years of public criticism over the original sculpture's likeness.
The new statue was unveiled on October 27, 2024, in front of the Heat's home arena in Miami. The original statue, which had been the subject of widespread ridicule on social media and among fans for its perceived lack of resemblance to the three-time NBA champion, has been replaced with a new version.
Wade, who spent the majority of his 16-year NBA career with the Heat and led the franchise to three championships, acknowledged the public commentary surrounding the original artwork. "I heard the jokes," Wade said, addressing the criticism that had followed the initial unveiling.
The Hall of Fame guard's statue joins those of other Heat legends at the arena, cementing his legacy with the franchise where he became the all-time leading scorer and a 13-time All-Star.
